Mas Apprenticeship Consultant Travels to Norfolk Island to Enhance Local Training Opportunities

In a remarkable effort to support businesses and Australians in upskilling, Kate Gould, one of our Apprenticeship Consultants in Queensland, took a two-hour flight from Brisbane to spend five days on Norfolk Island, one of Australia’s most isolated communities.

“We are the sole Apprentice Connect Provider delivering apprenticeship services on the island,” Kate explained.

“Our team has worked closely with the Department of Trade, Employment and Training (DTET) to support the local community with their career and business needs.”

One of the main focuses of Kate’s visit was to assist the Department in implementing school-based apprenticeships, a first for Norfolk Island. In collaboration with Norfolk Island Central School, Kate signed up four school-based apprentices who will undertake training in various fields, including:

• Certificate III in Conservation and Ecosystem Management
• Certificate III in Civil Construction
• Certificate III in Carpentry
• Certificate III in Cabinet Making and Timber Technology

Additionally, she enrolled a new full-time apprentice under a Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology.

Since most of these businesses were hiring an apprentice for the first time, Kate dedicated a significant amount of time to ensuring they were well-prepared for the training process. “It’s crucial that both employers and apprentices feel confident and supported from the start,” she said.

During her visit, Kate also attended the Industry Breakfast to thank the employers who are opening their doors to apprenticeships and to engage with other businesses about the benefits of these programs for the local community, especially the school-based apprenticeships.

“It was a packed schedule, completing as many workplace visits and engagement activities as possible during the five-day trip. Most importantly, it was a time to celebrate all things apprenticeships,” Kate shared.

We’d like to extend our gratitude to Caryn Harrington, the VET Coordinator from Norfolk Island Central School, and Tracey Graham, DTET Program Coordinator, for their invaluable partnership.

Kate will return to the island later this year to continue supporting the growth and development of apprenticeships in this unique and remote community.